seed systems

This webinar explores novel approaches to strengthening seed systems and markets. David Spielman, senior research fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) presents the webinar. The aim is to chalk out some basic principles to help understand the effects of changes in public policies on seed systems and markets in developing countries. »

This article argues that community seed banks can enhance the resilience of farmers, in particular of communities and households most affected by climate change. The various examples of community seed banks from this global review demonstrate that community seed banks are already carrying out major functions in terms of adaptation to climate change.  »

This discussion paper explores the importance of varietal turnover in advanced and transitional seed systems for food staples in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. The genetic improvement of food staple crops cultivated by small-scale farmers is a well-established route to increasing agricultural productivity and improving rural livelihoods. »

This blog discusses the importance of smaller regional seed companies in the delivery and adoption of new technologies to smallholder farmers. Within the seed industry there is a small group of big global players and a long tail of smaller regional, national and niche players. »

This blog explains different ways how effective seed systems help the world’s poor. An effective seed system can help mitigate the impact of pressures due to climate change by helping smallholder farmers access quality materials that increase crop yields and are responsive to the challenges they face in their fields. »

This synthesis report compares regional and national seed laws in Africa, and analyzes the extent to which they support (or undermine) farmers’ participation in seed systems. The paper pays particular attention to how or whether these laws recognize farmers as conservers and breeders of crop varieties, and as potential multipliers and providers of seed. »